Big weekend storm to dump rain in Bay Area, snow in Sierra

(KTVU) -- - Thursday and Friday are the calm before a weekend storm that could bring massive amounts of rainfall, and potential flooding and mudslides.

Thursday and Friday provide a break, before the weekend.

KTVU's Mark Tamayo said there is a weather phenomenon, known as an "atmospheric river" sweeping towards the Bay Area.

Rain will develop Saturday morning.

FutureCast models project most areas will receive about an inch of rain, or more.

San Jose could receive an inch and a half.

The coastal hills, Sonoma County and the Santa Cruz Mountains are expected to be some of the areas receiving the most rain Saturday and in particular, Sunday.

Tamayo predicts rainfall on Sunday could reach 8 to 10 inches in the hardest hit areas.

He said there will be a real threat for flash flooding and mudslides.

The storm is also expected to dump snow in the Sierra. This comes after recent rain just delivered several feet of new snow in the Sierra. At this point, chains or vehicles with four-wheel drive are required on sections of I-80 near Lake Tahoe. 

Mother Nature won't be done with the Bay Area, as there could be more rain next week as well.